Mediation and Alternative Dispute ResolutionAs experienced mediators, we mediate all types of matters, including workers' compensation, civil litigation, and family law. In the legal profession, we are often requested by other attorneys to act as mediator or arbitrator on several different types of cases. We practice in both negotiation and advocacy on behalf of clients in mediation, arbitration, or other alternatives to litigation or trial.Family LawOur attorneys assist clients with understanding and resolving the difficult issues involved in divorce, child and spousal support, custody and visitation, adoption, paternity, pre-marital agreements, separation, and juvenile matters. We encourage negotiation, mediation, and alternate dispute resolution to enable our clients to actively participate in the resolution of these issues.Divorce Legal Separation Prenuptial Agreements Break up of Cohabitating Relationship or Common Law Marriages Modification of existing Court Orders Remarriage: What to think about Collaborative Divorce We are trained in the growing area of collaborative law. Under this method both parties have a specially trained lawyer who agree with the parties, in a contract, that they will resolve the case without going to court. If the parties cannot agree on terms of the divorce, the collaborative divorce terminates and both lawyers are disqualified from representing the parties. Most of the work in collaborative divorce is done with both parties and the lawyers negotiating in the same room in an open environment. For more information, refer to: Iowa Academy of Collaborative LawWills and Estate PlanningWe can draft your will, power of attorney for health care or finances, living will, trusts and other related documents. Many people don't realize that when you re-marry, special documents can be drawn up to be sure your money and property goes where you want it to. Without proper "Estate Planning" money may not go to the proper people. We are sure to discuss issues regarding "Step Families".Parenting CoordinationEven after the divorce is final, people raising children together experience conflict. Parties agree by court order or by contract to consult with the parenting coordinator who has authority to speak to the parties, the child(ren), counselors and others familiar with the dispute. Then, depending on the scope of the authority granted by the parties, the parenting coordinator can make decisions so parties break impasse and move on with their lives and with their parenting responsibilities. Most issues heard by the parenting coordinator are not issues that justify lawyers and courts. Yet, they are issues that cause tension and stress to families. By having the parenting coordinator available, parties have a quick resource for resolving issues. Kim Stamatelos was trained as a parenting coordinator in 2009 and has experience in working with high conflict couples.
Stamatelos Kimberly Attorney At Law & Mediator West Des Moines address and phone